When it comes to wedding desserts, traditional 3-tiered cakes are no longer the only option!
Today, non-traditional couples are embracing a variety of creative (and delicious) alternatives to satisfy their sweet cravings and delight their guests – from interactive dessert bars to specialty cocktails and savory spreads.
Looking for ideas? If a frosted wedding cake simply isn’t your style, read on as we share 9 unique wedding cake alternatives for non-traditional couples below.
Serve Up Specialty Cocktails
For couples who love to mix things up, consider serving a late-night dessert cocktail. Treat your guests to a specialty drink inspired by a classic dessert, such as chocolate martinis or strawberry shortcake shooters. You could even create a martini tower (inspired by a classic champagne tower) to double as a statement piece for your wedding reception.
Design a Dessert Bar
Why settle for just one dessert, when you can have an entire spread of yummy treats? A dessert bar allows you to serve an array of different options – from cupcakes to brownies and cake pops – ensuring there’s something for all guests to enjoy. Bonus: this is an easy way to cater for different dietaries, too!
Hire a Gelato Cart
Transport your guests to Italy by hiring a gelato cart stationed at your wedding reception! Serve up scoops of creamy gelato in a variety of flavors, from traditional favorites like vanilla and chocolate to more exotic options like pistachio or blood orange. You could even design and name your own custom flavor inspired by your relationship.
Create Personalized Cookies
Put a personal spin on your wedding desserts with decorated cookies featuring your initials, wedding date, or special artworks. Whether it’s hand-decorated sugar cookies or shortbread treats, personalized cookies are always a hit with wedding guests! You can either arrange them in a decorative display, or package them as wedding favors for your loved ones to enjoy later.
Curate a Cheese Platter
For couples with a savory palate, a cheese platter is the perfect alternative to a traditional wedding cake. Simply curate a selection of artisanal cheeses paired with gourmet crackers, dried fruits, crusty bread and chutneys for the ultimate charcuterie spread. Add a touch of elegance with decorative cheese knives and labels identifying each cheese.
Stack a Macaron Tower
For couples with a taste for the finer things in life, a macaron tower is a chic and sophisticated dessert option that can be easily DIY-ed! Simply stack delicate French macarons in a variety of colors and flavors to create a stunning centerpiece that also doubles as a delicious treat.
Serve Churros Cups
Because who doesn’t love crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated churros? Serve 2 or 3 small churros in small cups, complete with chocolate dipping sauce, vanilla ice cream or dulce de leche for the perfect crowd-pleasing dessert!
Have a S’mores Station
Planning a rustic outdoor wedding? If your venue allows, embrace the cozy charm of a campfire and set up a “S’mores Station” with marshmallows, chocolate bars, and graham crackers, along with skewers for roasting marshmallows. Guests can gather around the firepit and create their own s’mores, complete with melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows.
DIY Candy Bar
Bring out the inner child in your guests by designing a nostalgic DIY candy bar filled with an assortment of sweet treats. Set up jars of your favorite candies and chocolates, and provide goody bags and small tongs for guests to self serve.
Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or a little bit of both, these unique dessert ideas are not only delicious but will also create a memorable experience for your guests!
Looking for more out-of-the-box wedding inspiration? Check out these 6 non-traditional wedding ideas for modern couples.
